Ellie Lieberman
In one way or another, all the main characters come from me. On at least some level I can relate to them all. Because of this, I don't think I entirely have a favorite. For the four main characters, and some of the minor characters such as Amy Bishop or Ophelia Cortes, there are both aspects I love and absolutely frustrate me about the characters. I hope the same goes for the reader as well.
It's easier to answer who I don't like. I am not a big fan of Nicole Brennerman. I am also not a big fan of the four main character's parents, with the exception of Math and Sampson's mother. With the way Math and Sampson both reference her, she is a character I like very much, even though she does not technically show up in the book.
That being said, along with the four main characters, I had a lot of fun writing Ophelia Cortes. And if it doesn't sound conceited, I love the introduction to her. The whole "tattoos tied to a story. With a name tied to a tragedy she would never let herself experience. Who dances like no one’s watching in front of an audience of customers..." and especially the "Mr. Rogers-with-a-lip-ring stare."
She represents a type of freedom within the same restrictions the main characters, and even Amy Bishop, feel so fiercely. For her to achieve this type of freedom, or "more" as Carver would put it, within these same struggles, to defy the challenges each of the characters face, including herself, was sort of a breath of fresh air, if that makes sense. I think she was that for Carver, too.
It's easier to answer who I don't like. I am not a big fan of Nicole Brennerman. I am also not a big fan of the four main character's parents, with the exception of Math and Sampson's mother. With the way Math and Sampson both reference her, she is a character I like very much, even though she does not technically show up in the book.
That being said, along with the four main characters, I had a lot of fun writing Ophelia Cortes. And if it doesn't sound conceited, I love the introduction to her. The whole "tattoos tied to a story. With a name tied to a tragedy she would never let herself experience. Who dances like no one’s watching in front of an audience of customers..." and especially the "Mr. Rogers-with-a-lip-ring stare."
She represents a type of freedom within the same restrictions the main characters, and even Amy Bishop, feel so fiercely. For her to achieve this type of freedom, or "more" as Carver would put it, within these same struggles, to defy the challenges each of the characters face, including herself, was sort of a breath of fresh air, if that makes sense. I think she was that for Carver, too.
More Answered Questions
Jason Howell
asked
Ellie Lieberman:
Hi Ellie... This a question I'm asking of several writers, some friends, some strangers... Can you think of a risk you should be taking but are avoiding right now? In your writing life or otherwise? If so, what would you guess is holding you back? Why are you avoiding this risk? What's at stake? Thanks.
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Aug 22, 2015 10:41AM